Feds Look To Boost Web Accessibility

The Obama administration is asking for the public to weigh in on how to make government websites and other information technology more accessible for people with disabilities.

The request comes as federal officials work to develop a strategic plan to enhance technological accessibility.

President Barack Obama called for the plan last summer in an effort to beef up compliance with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, which requires federal agencies’ websites and other technology to be fully accessible for those with disabilities.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

In a blog post Monday on the White House website, three administration officials said that they are well on their way to completing the strategic plan after wrapping up a series of listening sessions and meetings with stakeholders.

But now the group is looking for feedback to assess whether they are on the right track. Accordingly, they are soliciting comments and ideas through April 9 on a new website.

“People with disabilities should be able to access their government on an equal footing with all Americans,” wrote Kareem Dale, Obama’s special assistant to the president for disability policy, and two colleagues in the blog post. “With this strategy and your input, we take one more step toward achieving that goal.”

Find a Job

DISABILITY SCOOP WELCOMES COMMENTS, THOUGH ONLY A SELECTION ARE PUBLISHED. WE LOOK FOR SUBMISSIONS THAT ARE THOUGHTFUL, ON-TOPIC AND ADD NEW IDEAS OR PERSPECTIVE. PLEASE KEEP YOUR REMARKS BRIEF AND REFRAIN FROM INSERTING LINKS.